FORD RANGER MS-RT

New sporting variant of luxo-truck takes different approach to Raptor

- STEVE CROPLEY

At first, it's hard to see a purpose for the new £52k Ford Ranger MS-RT, given that there are already seven models in the Ranger line-up. This starts with the no-frills, four-pot XL at £29k and extends upwards to the Baja-influenced Ranger Raptor at £51k, complete with 288bhp 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6, locking differentials, racing shocks and four-wheel drive.

Scan the specifications, though, and light dawns. For all the racy body bits and the claim of “a motorsport aesthetic” for this pick-up truck's styling, the components that matter are the ultra-torquey 3.0-litre turbo diesel V6, the standard four-wheel drive, the 21in alloy wheels wearing 275/45 Continental performance rubber, the 3.5-tonne towing capacity and the butch-looking tow hook protruding from the girder-like rear chassis crossbeam.

The MS-RT seems destined to become the handsome prime mover in a rig that might include a large trailer, caravan or horsebox. Or maybe it will be found on the nation's boat ramps, helping yachts reach their natural habitat.

The MS-RT also has a load capacity of a full 1000kg, rather than the 600kg of the even racier Raptor, below which it sits on the price ladder.

Although it claims the same 'ultimate street truck' vibe as the Raptor, the MS-RT is different in many important ways.